president obama formally recognized a coalition of syrian opposition groups opening the way for the rebels fighting the regime of assad. the recognition comes as the white house confirms to nbc news that assad is more desperate and started using scud missiles. >> we're made a decision that the syrian opposition coalition is now inclusive enough, is reflective and representative enough of the syrian population that we consider them the legitimate representative of the syrian people. >> joining me now, deputy editor bobby gauch. does this provide help to the rebels? >> it is not yet clear. the united states did not say it will provide arms. it opens the door wider and the u.s. is coming late to this party. a number of other allies of the united states have given recognition and giving them arms and assistance. the u.s. is among the last reported stamp of approval. >> what are do you think the approval was meat at this point? part the united states has had concern fist are a long time that among the many groups, some have close ties to al qaeda and the obama administration didn't want to give